Kirsten Kainoa
BEd SPED Hawkins' Scholar

"As a special education teacher, I have an opportunity to make an impact on young people during a critical time in their lives by teaching them important life skills and providing guidance that will help shape their future."
Department
Special Education
Related Degrees
- BEd in Special Education
Why did you choose to become a teacher, in general?
My desire to become a teacher has always stemmed from my passion of working with children. I am so amazed at the individualized hard work and dedication that comes with each student. Their passion for learning constantly inspires me to want to help students to achieve their goals and desires beyond the classroom. I find it incredibly rewarding to see a student’s face light up when they finally understand a concept or have success in an area where they were struggling. Teaching provides me with an opportunity to make sure that all students are given the right tools and knowledge to achieve success in life.
Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?
I am passionate about helping students learn and grow, both academically and personally. As a special education teacher, I have an opportunity to make an impact on young people during a critical time in their lives by teaching them important life skills and providing guidance that will help shape their future. I believe that education is a right, not a privilege, and I want to do my part in creating equal access to quality education for all students. Being a special education teacher allows me to become an advocate for those who are underserved and underrepresented in our educational system.